On Monday, June 2, 2025, at approximately 2:16 p.m., the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a male who advised he had shot his wife and son and had attempted to commit suicide. Deputies obtained information from the male about his identity and location.
Deputies from Randolph and Upshur County, West Virginia State Troopers from multiple counties, and West Virginia Natural Resources Police responded to the Helvetia area of Randolph County.
Deputies arrived at the provided address. On this property were three cabin-style residences. Officers attempted to make contact with individuals occupying the residences, with no success. Due to the nature of the call, officers deemed forced entry to be necessary for the preservation of life. After clearing the residences, no person or evidence of a crime was observed.
Through investigation conducted by the officers on scene, and communication with the property owner, it was determined this call was a false reporting “swatting” call. “Swatting” is a false reporting call placed to law enforcement officers to create an emergency response.
This incident is actively being investigated by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office.
